Lt. Shauna Morris – a judge advocate assigned to Defense Service Office (DSO) Pacific – played an integral role in the planning and execution of the 2019 Sasebo Women’s Waterfront Symposium on Sept. 18 at the Commander, Fleet Activities Sasebo (CFAS) Community Education Center.

Morris worked closely with Cmdr. Greta Densham, commanding officer of Naval Beach Unit 7, to design an inclusive and productive event. The symposium, titled “Embracing Life in Japan,” was a forum for local women to share stories and perspectives on female empowerment, physical and mental health, and goal setting.

“Lt. Morris has proven herself as a talented officer and judge advocate while leading our branch office in Sasebo,” said Capt. David M. Harrison, commanding officer of DSO Pacific. “Her thoughtful and caring approach to client representation, our command, and broader issues such as this symposium is what really sets her apart.”

In her capacity as the branch office head, Morris represents service members at Administrative Separation Boards, Boards of Inquiry and courts-martial, in addition to providing advice on other defense-related topics such as nonjudicial punishment. Her hard work on the 2019 Sasebo Women’s Waterfront Symposium is just one of many ways Morris engages her local community.

Nearly 90 people attended the symposium, including men and women, active-duty personnel, military spouses, civilian professionals, and Japanese Master Labor Contractors. The one-day event consisted of a panel of guest speakers, panel forums, and presentations, and served as a space for conversation regardless of rate or rank.

“It was real relatable,” said Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Marissa Cross, who is assigned to CFAS career counselor office. “Because these women, junior Sailors, chiefs, officers, rank doesn't matter. The struggles and obstacles are the same.”

In her capacity as the branch office head, Morris represents service members at Administrative Separation Boards, Boards of Inquiry and courts-martial, in addition to providing advice on other defense-related topics such as nonjudicial punishment. Her hard work on the 2019 Sasebo Women’s Waterfront Symposium is just one of many ways Morris engages her local community.

Nearly 90 people attended the symposium, including men and women, active-duty personnel, military spouses, civilian professionals, and Japanese Master Labor Contractors. The one-day event consisted of a panel of guest speakers, panel forums, and presentations, and served as a space for conversation regardless of rate or rank.

“It was real relatable,” said Aviation Ordnanceman 3rd Class Marissa Cross, who is assigned to CFAS career counselor office. “Because these women, junior Sailors, chiefs, officers, rank doesn't matter. The struggles and obstacles are the same.”

The keynote speaker Morris helped secure, U.S. Consulate Fukuoka Public Affairs Officer, Yuki Kondo-Shah, spoke about recognizing limitations and her experiences in trying to create balance in her life.

“You are always walking a tightrope, be professional, be masculine, not too feminine, but not too aggressive, but assertive, but not too much,” said Kondo-Shah. However, she encouraged attendees to ask for help and accept imperfections.

The symposium sparked interest in a bi-monthly discussion series, which Morris is working to develop in collaboration with the local United Service Office. Subsequent events are scheduled on Oct. 7 and Oct 21.